An Unlikely Bond

I blink slowly and think back to the camp in the forest. To Muscular. Izuku couldn't possibly defeat him, but he did: he did it for Kouta. And he gave it his all in the Sports Festival for his friends. Even for people he didn't know: Shinso, Hatsume... they were all trying their best, and that made him want to do it too. I recall the determination in Izuku's eyes, the fire that burned within him to protect those he cared about. It was a quality that I admired, a quality that made me want to be a better person. "I see," I nod, a spark in my eyes. "You're right, Yoarashi-san. Heroes always protect each other." My words seem to ignite a fire within him, and his grin returns, wider than before. "Yoarashi-san?" His mouth opens in a "oh" of surprise. I barely have the time to blink and he's bowing again, forehead grazing the ground. "Oh no! I'm not worthy of such respect! Please call me Inasa-kun!" I'm taken aback by his reaction, and my mind wanders to the vast differences between our worlds. In my time, it was uncommon for children to be so... formal. "Worthy of such respect"? Why does nobody talk like a kid here? You're six for fuck's sake, you should be getting a wrong pronunciation on simple words. I think to myself, chuckling internally at the peculiarities of this world. As an adult reborn in a kid's body, I sometimes forget that I'm not the only one navigating this strange new world. "That's much too informal," I wrinkle my nose. "I would be disrespecting you. Please accept my request, Inasa-kun." I try to sound as polite as possible, not wanting to offend him. "I could never!" He insists, his voice filled with conviction. We find ourselves in a stalemate, both bowing and refusing to give in. "I have not shown myself as worthy of respect yet! I wish for you to call me Inasa-kun!" His determination is admirable, and I find myself smiling. "Yoarashi-san," nobody can see it since I'm keeping my head down, but my jaw is squared stubbornly. "I find you plenty worthy of respect. You are going to be a great hero-" I say, my voice firm but gentle. I genuinely believe that he has the potential to make a difference, and I want to encourage him. The air is filled with an awkward silence as we continue to bow, each waiting for the other to give in. My parents exchange an amused glance, clearly entertained by our peculiar exchange. As I stand there, I realize that I've found someone who shares my values, someone who understands the importance of respect and kindness. And perhaps, just perhaps, this unlikely bond will be the start of something special.